We will keep fighting for all libraries - stand with us!
Fablabs provide people with the possibility of making (almost) any object, by sharing digital fabrication tools and knowledge on making. However, to use these tools require experience in designing with 2D or 3D computeraided design programs, that are mostly created with expertusers in mind. In the research project “Bespoke Design” we made personal selfmanagement tools for and together with type 1 diabetics. One of the findings of Bespoke Design was that making personal designs without the support of a designer is not feasible for nonexpert users, mainly due to difficulties of translating their idea into a digital model or drawing. Furthermore, we noticed that the needs of people with diabetes change over time. This demands for a design that evolves according to these changes. Parametric design tools can offer a solution since it enables (nonexpert) users to make small changes to the design. However, these changes are limited to the confinements imposed by the designer. Therefore, parametric design falls short when the objective is really involving participants in designing from scratch. We state that adopting tangible interfaces that use more natural interactions can lower the threshold for nonexpert users in Fablabs, bridging the gap towards personal fabrication.
107 Views
For users with print-disabilities
Uploaded by Unknown on